NPR: “Who Needs Libraries?”
Just heard this story from SoundPrint on my local NPR station. If you work in a library, you should go listen to it now.
Who needs libraries?
Produced by: Richard Paul
As more and more information is available on-line, as Amazon rolls out new software that allows anyone to find any passage in any book, an important question becomes: Who needs libraries anymore? Why does anyone need four walls filled with paper between covers? Surprisingly, they still do and in this program Producer Richard Paul explores why; looking at how university libraries, school libraries and public libraries have adapted to the new information world. This program airs as part of our ongoing series on education and technology, and is funded in part by the U.S. Department of Education.
You can listen online (streaming RealMedia audio) for free here.
Streaming Tip: If, like me, you loathe Real Player and don’t want it installed on your computer, I recommend downloading and installing Real Alternative. I’ve been using this for years now with absolutely no complaints.
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January 28th, 2008 at 5:45 pm
I’m always fascinated by stories about how libraries and librarians will always be necessary. I’m not a librarian, but I work in a library. These stories and articles rarely mention folks like me. They mention how librarians will always be needed and have some job security even after the books have been removed–job security is often the point of such works. Ah, everyone shall feel free to feel good. Well, what about those of us whose jobs are to handle said removed books? [Insert crickets chirping here]
So, on behalf of job-insecure library paraprofessionals everywhere: thhhpppppttthhh!